Keele University

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules with practical laboratory work and an independent dissertation project. You will develop advanced skills in software engineering, algorithms, data handling and systems design, and have the opportunity to study specialist topics depending on availability and demand.

• Core areas: advanced algorithms and complexity, software engineering and systems development, research methods and professional practice, and a substantial individual dissertation or project.
• Typical specialist modules: machine learning and data mining, databases and big data technologies, cybersecurity and network security, distributed and cloud systems, human–computer interaction, and embedded and real-time systems.
• Teaching and assessment: a mix of lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions and supervised project supervision. Assessment is typically by coursework, practical assignments, exams and a major project culminating in a written dissertation and oral presentation.
• Duration and modes: the standard route is full-time over one year, with part-time study usually available over two to three years to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK undergraduate degree at 2:1 level (or international equivalent) in computer science, computing, software engineering or a closely related subject. Candidates with a 2:2 may be considered where they can demonstrate relevant professional experience or evidence of strong quantitative ability.

• Applicants from non-computing backgrounds are welcomed on a case-by-case basis; they may be asked to complete bridging work or attend pre-sessional modules to build prerequisite programming and maths skills.
• International applicants must meet Keele's English language requirements; evidence of an academic-level English qualification is usually required for those whose first language is not English.
• Applicants should submit transcripts and a personal statement outlining prior experience, computing skills and intended areas of study; references or a CV highlighting relevant work or project experience strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MSc Computer Science progress into a wide range of technical and research roles. The programme is designed to equip you with practical software development skills, systems thinking, and an ability to apply computational techniques to real problems.

• Typical roles include software developer/engineer, data scientist or analyst, systems architect, cybersecurity analyst, cloud engineer, and machine learning engineer.
• Graduates also move into consultancy, technical project management, and technical roles within finance, healthcare, engineering and public sector organisations.
• The MSc is a recognised preparation for doctoral study (PhD) for those interested in an academic or advanced research career.

Why study at Keele University

Keele's School of Computing and Mathematics offers small-group teaching and close supervision for project work, which helps students gain hands-on experience with contemporary tools and platforms. The University emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, so students can work alongside peers in business, health or the natural sciences on applied computing problems.

• Research-active staff in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science and cybersecurity provide opportunities for research-led teaching and project supervision.
• Facilities include teaching laboratories, high-performance computing resources and access to digital tools used in industry.
• Keele's campus environment and careers support help students build professional networks, prepare job applications and secure internships or placements with regional and national employers.